Discrimination

Definition

Discrimination refers to the unjust or prejudicial treatment of different categories of people, especially on the grounds of race, age, sex, or disability. It involves denying individuals or groups equal rights, opportunities, and access based on their membership in a particular group or category.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment prohibits discrimination by the government on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, or sex.
2. Discrimination can take many forms, including denial of employment, housing, education, or public accommodations based on an individual's membership in a protected group.
3. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in employment, public accommodations, and other areas.
4. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, transportation, public accommodations, and other areas.
5. Affirmative action policies aim to promote equal opportunity and address historical discrimination against underrepresented groups.

Review Questions

• Explain how the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment relates to the issue of discrimination.
  • The Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment prohibits the government from denying any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. This means that the government cannot discriminate against individuals or groups based on their race, color, religion, national origin, or sex. The clause has been interpreted to require the government to treat all people equally under the law, unless there is a compelling reason for differential treatment.
• Describe the key provisions of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and how they address discrimination.
  • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a landmark piece of legislation that outlawed discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin in employment, public accommodations, and other areas. Specifically, Title VII of the Act prohibited employment discrimination, while Title II prohibited discrimination in public accommodations, such as hotels, restaurants, and theaters. The Act also established the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) to enforce these anti-discrimination laws and investigate complaints of discrimination.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of affirmative action policies in addressing historical discrimination and promoting equal opportunity.
  • Affirmative action policies are designed to promote equal opportunity and address the effects of past discrimination against underrepresented groups, such as racial minorities and women. While these policies have been effective in increasing diversity and representation in various sectors, they have also faced criticism and legal challenges. Proponents argue that affirmative action is necessary to level the playing field and provide opportunities for marginalized groups, while opponents contend that it constitutes reverse discrimination. The ongoing debate over the merits and drawbacks of affirmative action highlights the complex and nuanced nature of addressing discrimination in society.

Related terms

Prejudice: A preconceived opinion or judgment formed without just grounds or before sufficient knowledge.

Stereotyping: The act of oversimplifying and generalizing the characteristics of a particular group or category of people.

Equality: The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, and opportunities.